Balaklava Show Report

The Balaklava Show proved to be a positive and well-supported event, with strong public interest throughout the day. A total of 93 entries were received, with 87 birds benched, showcasing the quality and dedication of exhibitors.

Several fanciers travelled in support, including Dennis Lomman and Pauline Lampre from Adelaide, while Shiralee Reardon exhibited some very competitive birds. Two major trophies were awarded: Overall Champion went to Graham McCallum with a striking Cinnamonwing Grey Green, while Champion Opposite Sex was won by Bob Simpson with a stylish Lacewing.

Judging duties were carried out by Larry Jeffries, with Bob Simpson serving as Steward. The team effort behind the scenes was also evident, with Trevor Russell, Graham McCallum and Bob Simpson working together to stage the Port Pirie equipment.

Exhibitors expressed enthusiasm for the event, with some suggesting additional trophies and classes in the future to further encourage participation. Show Convener Bob Simpson was very encouraged by the turnout and the huge public engagement and expressed his hopes for even greater entry numbers next year given this is the last Agricultural Show to exhibit caged birds.

Sunday saw the Aviculture Society of South Australia host their highly anticipated Expo at the Fullarton Community Centre. The event attracted strong interest from the public, with a vibrant mix of finches, natives, and exotic birds on display.

Budgerigars were well represented, with both the BSSA and North East Budgerigar Club staging engaging displays. Their efforts were rewarded, with each club proudly welcoming three new Council members on the day – a testament to the value of showcasing budgie breeding to fanciers who are already passionate about birds.

Special congratulations go to David Pace and his team from the Aviculture Society for staging such a professional and successful event. A big shout out to John Mulley, John Farrugia Gay, Ken and Janet Harris, Pauline Lampre, Sue Adams, Bec, Chris, Kerry & Marie Murphy, and Ian Jenke, who all enthusiastically represented the budgerigar fancy and ensured the hobby was promoted in the best possible light.

This week also saw the release of the ANBC Gazette, which continues to grow in size, and go from strength to strength. The October edition included a lot of great stories and information, including two motions that have been presented by Victoria for the next ANBC meeting on October 11th.

The first motion relates to the Honour Roll Service Division of the ANBC, proposing the creation of pull-up banners similar to those used for the Honour Roll Breeders Division. The second motion concerns the announcement of ANBC Judges, proposing that they be named in advance of January of the year of the National.

For anyone with interest in these motions, please make sure you get a hold of your Club Council delegates.

BSSA Come & Try Night

Looking ahead, the BSSA will be hosting their popular Come & Try Night – an excellent initiative designed to attract new interest in breeding, exhibiting, and keeping budgerigars. The evening will provide attendees with practical insights, including guidance on recognising common faults and advice on how to avoid repeating them. A highlight of the night will be the much-anticipated bird giveaways for Junior and Novice members, helping to lower the barriers to entry into the hobby thanks to the generosity of the cohort.

The event will also feature a lively Buy, Sell & Swap, where members are encouraged to bring along birds, cages, books, seed hoppers, or any other items they wish to trade. Sales can be completed by tender, swap, or fixed price, ensuring there is something for everyone. In addition, the Club will present a short synopsis of their recent Bus Trip to Melton in July 2025.

With education, opportunity, and plenty of budgie enthusiasm on offer, the night promises to be a fantastic occasion. Full details can be found in the Around the Clubs section.

This year, you can enter by submitting a video of your budgie’s best moment—talking, playing, or showing off those clever moves. These videos will be featured throughout the festival, and the most impressive performances will take home the glory.

Budgie Fest 2025 grand finale will happen on Saturday afternoon at the Campbelltown Convention Centre, 172 Montacute Road, Rostrevor. It’s more than an event—it’s a nationwide celebration of our love for these incredible little birds.

Join us between Noon and 3 PM at the Campbelltown Function Centre for a FREE FAMILY FUN DAY filled with all things budgies. Kids can enjoy face painting, magic shows, colouring competitions, and even free 5-minute vet checks for feathered friends. Adults can relax with a Barossa wine tasting thanks to our partners at Hentley Farm and enjoy a live art demonstration inspired by—you guessed it—budgies!

This year’s awards will be based on your video entries, so get filming! Be in the running to be 🥇🐦 Chirp-Champion 2025 – The Ultimate Best Pet Budgie of the year

Grab your camera, capture your budgie’s personality, and be part of Australia’s biggest celebration of budgies. Don’t miss out—Budgie Fest 2025 is your bird’s moment to shine!

🎥 Film your budgie: Record a short video (30–90 seconds) of your budgie talking, playing, or performing tricks.

Spring in the Barossa is nothing short of magical—rolling green vineyards, fragrant cellar doors, and world-class wines, all served with the warmest country hospitality. This small-group, relaxed tour will visit a curated selection of boutique and heritage wineries across Tanunda, Seppeltsfield, and beyond. Think generous tastings, fascinating stories from the winemakers, and plenty of time to savour the views. Your day includes comfortable return transport, guided tastings, and a regional lunch platter showcasing local produce. Andrew might even treat us to a sweet stop for artisan chocolate—because why not?

The cost is $118 per person, and tickets are strictly limited. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience!

Next up, we’re changing things up with our Budgie Fest Dinner this year. Hosted at the Campbelltown Function Centre, home of Budgie Fest, our dinner will feature a buffet dinner and dessert, all provided by our dedicated cohort of volunteers.

The evening will be hosted by Graeme Goodings, the beloved former Channel 7 news anchor and current FiveAA radio personality. Graeme will guide us through heartfelt conversations with passionate budgie breeders, including Garry and Helen Hibberd from Toowoomba, Mitchell Boal from Queensland, James Bader from Victoria, and others, as they share their personal stories, challenges, and triumphs that go on behind their budgerigars.

This isn’t just about the birds; it’s about the amazing people behind them. Graeme will bring their stories to life, offering you a rare and insightful look into their world. Enjoy the buffet-style dinner, filled with delicious options, and cap off the evening with a decadent dessert. It’s sure to be a night to remember, filled with good food, great company, and inspiring conversations. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just love great storytelling, this event is for you!

Location: Campbelltown Function Centre, Home of Budgie Fest, 172 Montacute Rd, Rostrevor. Tickets: $35 per person—limited tickets available. Secure yours today!

Alex Prez from Cruise Advisors has an excellent package for anyone planning to attend Budgie Fest in October. For those arriving on Thursday, 23 October, and departing on Sunday, 26 October, to take advantage of the proposed aviary visits, the packages are priced at $1,131.30 for a Superior King room and $1,239.30 for a Deluxe King room. For attendees arriving on Friday, 24 October, and leaving on Sunday, 26 October, the rates are $799.20 for a Superior King and $880.20 for a Deluxe King. These rates cover the full stay period and include a room upgrade at check-in if available, breakfast for two daily, a US$100 hotel credit, and early check-in and late checkout where possible. To book, contact Alex Prez, Independent Travel Specialist at Savenio – Signature Travel Experiences and Independent Travel Designer Solutions, via mobile at 0434 774 830 or Email alex.prez@savenio.com.au

The Interclub and Tri Club Cup are always a highlight of the South Australian exhibition calendar. With classes now confirmed, members can begin planning their entries and preparing their birds for competition. The release of the schedule also underscores the collaborative nature of South Australian clubs, as the Tri Club Cup brings together the BSSA, North East and Port Pirie Clubs to showcase the very best of the fancy. Exhibitors are eager to see how their birds will perform, while the friendly inter-club rivalry ensures a spirited and enjoyable event.

This is a great opportunity to compete for both the Best UBC and Best Young Bird. It’s also a chance to showcase your birds, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy some spirited competition over some great catering and even better banter.

The day will also include an aviary tour of Doug & Ruth’s, which is always a great time.

Cost is $118 per person. Tickets strictly limited.

Cost is $35 per person. Tickets strictly limited.